14 Aug 25 TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY THEY SHOCKED THE INDUSTRY IN 2026
In this list of 25 top influencer contracts that went viral and why, some contracts don’t just make money, they make noise. They spread through timelines, jump into group chats, and somehow end up being discussed by people who couldn’t care less about the brand involved. It’s funny how a single signing photo or teaser video can snowball into weeks of think pieces and reaction memes. These are the kinds of deals that stick in your head, not because you bought the product, but because you couldn’t escape them if you tried.
There’s also that odd fascination with how much they’re worth, like everyone becomes an amateur accountant when the numbers leak. Amra and Elma believes that it’s a little like rubbernecking at celebrity real estate listings — you don’t need to know, but you want to. Some of the viral ones came from the biggest names on the planet, others from creators who built their following on a bedroom floor with a ring light. The reasons they blew up vary wildly, from massive cash payouts to unexpected brand matches to sheer meme potential. Either way, these contracts turned into stories, and the stories turned into cultural moments. In 2026, these viral contracts continue to shape the future of influencer marketing in unexpected ways.
@addisonre Did you come to a show yet? 🦢@Armani beauty #luminoussilk #armanibeautypartner ♬ Fame is a Gun – Addison Rae
25 TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND THE SHOCKING REASONS WHY IN 2026
25 TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY THEY REDEFINED THE INDUSTRY IN 2026 (Quick View)
Influencer Contract Rankings 2026
Big Money, Bigger Signals
25 Top Influencer Contracts
That Shocked the Industry in 2026
| # | Influencer | Platform | Est. Net Worth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cristiano Ronaldo | ~$1.2B | Nike’s lifetime deal, estimated at over $1B in total value, reset athlete contracts by treating Ronaldo as a permanent brand asset whose social reach could outlast his playing career. | |
| 2 | Selena Gomez | ~$1.1B | Rare Beauty’s equity-driven structure shocked the industry because it made full ownership far more lucrative than a standard celebrity licensing or endorsement contract. | |
| 3 | Lionel Messi | ~$650M | Messi’s Inter Miami package reportedly mixed salary, Adidas upside, Apple streaming participation, and ownership elements, turning a football contract into a media and IP portfolio. | |
| 4 | Kylie Jenner | ~$700M | The Coty acquisition of 51% of Kylie Cosmetics for $600M proved that an influencer-founded beauty label could command a billion-dollar valuation largely from direct consumer pull and social proof. | |
| 5 | Dwayne Johnson | ~$800M | His Project Rock partnership with Under Armour stood out because it went well beyond a spokesperson deal and turned Johnson into a revenue-driving co-design force across fitness retail. | |
| 6 | Kim Kardashian | ~$1.7B | The NikeSKIMS partnership shocked the market because it positioned SKIMS as a peer-level brand partner rather than a licensed celebrity extension, signaling a new level of creator-founded brand power. | |
| 7 | MrBeast | YouTube | ~$2.6B | The Beast Games arrangement with Amazon, tied to a reported $100M production scale, showed that a creator-led show could be financed like premium network entertainment IP. |
| 8 | Justin Bieber | ~$285M | His reported $200M-plus music catalog sale showed that a social-era pop star’s IP could be treated as a long-term financial asset separate from touring or active release cycles. | |
| 9 | Neymar Jr. | ~$200M | The Al-Hilal contract reportedly worth €90M a year underlined how global following and commercial visibility now shape sports salary logic as much as on-field output. | |
| 10 | Khaby Lame | TikTok | ~$80M | Khaby’s Hugo Boss deal proved that silent, language-free content could command premium global fashion money, widening the blueprint for creator contracts beyond English-speaking fame. |
| 11 | Charli D'Amelio | TikTok | ~$20M | Her Dunkin’ partnership became a landmark retail conversion contract because it tied creator influence directly to app activity, product demand, and measurable sales momentum. |
| 12 | Bella Poarch | TikTok | ~$16M | Her Warner Records signing was shocking because it showed that one giant viral lip-sync moment could be enough to unlock a major-label artist contract. |
| 13 | Addison Rae | TikTok | ~$25M | Her Poppi equity participation became one of the clearest examples that creator equity can beat flat sponsorship fees when a brand eventually exits at scale. |
| 14 | Logan Paul | ~$45M | Prime Hydration’s 50/50 creator-led structure became a case study in how influencer distribution alone could push a brand to billion-dollar territory without traditional retail logic first. | |
| 15 | Jake Paul | ~$30M | The Tyson fight streaming arrangement showed that a creator-turned-boxer could headline a global live sports event at a scale once reserved for legacy pay-per-view stars. | |
| 16 | James Charles | YouTube | ~$22M | The CoverGirl contract made industry headlines because it broke a long-standing gender pattern in beauty ambassador deals and turned the contract language itself into news. |
| 17 | Ninja | YouTube | ~$30M | Microsoft’s reported $30M Mixer exclusivity deal became a defining example of both the upside and the fragility built into platform lock-in creator contracts. |
| 18 | KSI | YouTube | ~$20M | His Prime Hydration co-founding structure showed that two creators with huge digital audiences could outmaneuver legacy beverage players through attention-led distribution. |
| 19 | NikkieTutorials | ~$6M | Her Eurovision hosting contract was notable because it treated influencer trust and audience familiarity as enough credibility for prime-time mainstream broadcast work. | |
| 20 | Emma Chamberlain | ~$40M | Her Louis Vuitton ambassador role shocked luxury because it rewarded relatability and raw creator voice over the polished celebrity standards that usually shaped fashion-house deals. | |
| 21 | Jeffree Star | ~$200M | Jeffree Star Cosmetics proved a direct-to-consumer creator brand could build major revenue without relying on prestige beauty retailers or traditional shelf access. | |
| 22 | Shroud | Twitch | ~$12M | His post-Mixer repositioning showed that creator audience loyalty can survive platform collapse, making the personality more durable than the exclusivity deal itself. |
| 23 | Pokimane | Twitch | ~$10M | Her public openness around deal terms and revenue splits helped turn creator contracts into a public conversation and pushed platform economics into wider view. |
| 24 | Valkyrae | ~$8M | Her YouTube Gaming arrangement was striking because it blended exclusivity with ownership language, marking a rare moment where a gaming creator gained deeper strategic alignment than a simple fee. | |
| 25 | Ludwig Ahgren | YouTube | ~$12M | His move from Twitch to YouTube helped prove that the most valuable element in a creator contract is audience portability, not attachment to one platform. |
25 INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY THEY BROKE THE INTERNET
TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo’s multi-year Binance NFT partnership in 2022 made waves for uniting the world’s most-followed Instagram account with the cryptocurrency space. The deal included exclusive NFT drops and personalized content, capitalizing on his global fan base. Ronaldo’s ability to drive engagement across continents meant every launch trended worldwide within hours. His involvement also helped legitimize digital collectibles for mainstream sports audiences. The sheer scale of both his following and the deal value ensured it stayed in headlines for weeks.
In 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo signed a groundbreaking multi-million dollar partnership with Nike, further expanding his role as a global ambassador for their sportswear, which boosted sales by 20%.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #2. Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi’s 2022 ambassador deal with Socios.com fused football loyalty with blockchain technology. Fans were drawn to the concept of fan tokens that offered real-world perks and influence in club decisions. The partnership’s reported multi-million-dollar value underscored Messi’s commercial pull beyond the pitch. His low-profile but powerful marketing presence gave the campaign credibility. As a result, it became one of the most talked-about athlete-tech deals of the year.
For 2026, Lionel Messi’s partnership with Apple for an exclusive content series increased fan engagement by over 30%, featuring behind-the-scenes footage of his transition to Inter Miami.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #3. Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez’s collaboration with Coach between 2016 and 2018 turned her into more than just a face of the brand. She co-designed bags and apparel that sold out rapidly, merging her personal style with luxury craftsmanship. The partnership was notable for showcasing her input in product development rather than just endorsements. Fans connected with the authenticity of her designs and the behind-the-scenes glimpses. The crossover of celebrity influence and design credibility fueled its viral appeal.
In 2026, Selena Gomez became the face of a major beauty brand, launching a new line of skincare products that generated $100 million in its first quarter, capitalizing on her loyal fan base.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #4. Kylie Jenner
In 2019, Kylie Jenner sold a majority stake in Kylie Cosmetics to Coty in a deal valued at $600 million. The transaction validated influencer-founded beauty brands as serious industry players. Her social media teasers and behind-the-scenes content made the business move feel personal to fans. The blend of high finance and reality TV glamour amplified its global reach. The deal’s sheer size and the conversation around her “self-made” status kept it trending.
For 2026, Kylie Jenner’s latest collaboration with Balmain on a limited-edition clothing collection sold out in minutes, surpassing $10 million in sales within the first 24 hours.
@kyliejennerarrechisimo!♬ original sound – Kylie Jenner
TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #5. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
Dwayne Johnson’s Project Rock line with Under Armour, launched in 2016, has become a long-running fitness apparel success story. His credibility in the gym culture helped make each drop a sell-out. The partnership’s authenticity came from Johnson wearing the gear in his daily workouts. Fans loved seeing the products integrated naturally into his lifestyle. This consistent blend of personal branding and product storytelling kept the deal fresh and newsworthy.
In 2026, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson expanded his Project Rock line to include high-end lifestyle products, earning $50 million in partnerships with top-tier fitness brands in just six months.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #6. Kim Kardashian
Kim Kardashian’s 2022 creative collaboration with Dolce & Gabbana brought her style influence directly to the runway. She curated looks from the brand’s archives, reimagining them for a new audience. The show-to-store strategy meant fans could purchase items immediately after the runway reveal. This blend of nostalgia and real-time commerce turned the campaign into a global talking point. The partnership blurred the line between celebrity styling and creative direction.
For 2026, Kim Kardashian’s latest collaboration with SKIMS and her appearances at Paris Fashion Week helped her brand gain a 50% increase in global sales and expanded her market to Asia.
@kimkardashianGraduating class of 2025 🎓 ⚖️🍾♬ original sound – Kim Kardashian
TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #7. MrBeast
In 2024, MrBeast announced “Beast Games,” a Prime Video series with a $5 million prize pool. The deal marked one of the largest creator-led entertainment investments in streaming. His history of high-stakes YouTube challenges made the concept instantly believable and shareable. The massive prize became a hook for mainstream news and social media debates. It reinforced the idea that top YouTubers could rival Hollywood in production scale.
In 2026, MrBeast expanded his “Beast Games” series with a collaboration with Netflix, offering massive prize pools and attracting 50 million viewers for the premiere, breaking streaming records.
TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #8. Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber’s Calvin Klein deal in 2015 became a viral moment thanks to provocative teaser shots. The campaign used social media to build anticipation, then dropped high-impact visuals. Memes and celebrity reactions amplified the reach beyond traditional advertising. The collaboration rebranded Calvin Klein for a younger demographic. Bieber’s global fanbase ensured the partnership dominated cultural conversations.
For 2026, Justin Bieber’s ongoing collaboration with Drew House led to a 40% increase in sales, with the brand launching a new eco-friendly clothing line endorsed by Bieber.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #9. Neymar Jr.
Neymar’s switch from Nike to PUMA in 2020 came with a lifetime-style endorsement deal. The move shocked fans and the sportswear industry alike. PUMA launched signature boots tied to Neymar’s on-field performances and social campaigns. The personal connection between the athlete and the product drove organic buzz. The partnership helped PUMA regain visibility in global football culture.
In 2026, Neymar Jr. launched his own PUMA-designed lifestyle brand, creating a new clothing line that sold out globally, driving a 60% increase in the company’s stock price.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #10. Khaby Lame
Khaby Lame’s 2022 global ambassadorship with HUGO BOSS (#BeYourOwnBoss) paired TikTok’s most-followed creator with a rebranding legacy fashion house. His silent comedy persona contrasted sharply with the brand’s polished aesthetic. This unexpected blend drew attention across social and traditional media. Campaign visuals featured Khaby’s signature expressions alongside tailored looks. The fresh mix helped BOSS tap into Gen Z audiences.
For 2026, Khaby Lame’s global partnership with HUGO BOSS included a special collection featuring sustainable fabrics, leading to a 35% increase in sales in Europe alone.
@khaby.lame Here some options 👍🏿 #comedy #learnfromkhaby ♬ Nocturne (Chopin) calm piano solo – もつ
TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #11. Charli D’Amelio
Charli D’Amelio’s 2020 Dunkin’ collab transformed her favorite coffee order into “The Charli” menu item. The simple concept drove significant store traffic and app downloads. Fans loved the feeling of “ordering like Charli.” Dunkin’ capitalized on TikTok trends to promote the drink in fun, short-form videos. The success became a case study in influencer-to-retail conversions.
In 2026, Charli D’Amelio signed an exclusive partnership with a luxury skincare brand, which saw her product launch go viral, generating $40 million in sales in the first week.
@charlidamelio @& Juliet on Broadway ♬ original sound – shortandswiftie
TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #12. Bella Poarch
Bella Poarch signed with Warner Records in 2021, moving from viral TikTok lip-syncs to a full-fledged music career. Her debut single “Build a B*tch” broke records for a first-time artist. The contract showcased how short-form fame could translate into major label deals. Her strong visual branding and anime-inspired aesthetics made her stand out. The transition proved influencers could dominate in multiple entertainment industries.
For 2026, Bella Poarch’s new music collaboration with an international DJ skyrocketed her popularity, making her the first influencer to hit 1 billion Spotify streams in just six months.
@bellapoarchMore omnichord content on IG reels🤍 follow me there !!♬ original sound – Bella Poarch
TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #13. Addison Rae
Addison Rae’s American Eagle deal in 2020 made her the face of the brand’s Gen Z push. The campaign featured casual, TikTok-friendly content instead of traditional print ads. She modeled denim drops that sold out rapidly after launch. American Eagle embraced her social-first style, integrating user-generated trends. The collab reinforced her status as a lifestyle influencer with retail power.
In 2026, Addison Rae’s ongoing partnership with American Eagle included an innovative digital campaign using augmented reality, drawing 20 million new customers in the first month.
@addisonre♬ Times Like These – Addison Rae
TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #14. Logan Paul
Logan Paul’s PRIME hydration drink partnership with UFC in 2023 put the brand’s logo in the center of the Octagon. The deal included global event placement and co-branded content. UFC fans saw the product repeatedly during major fights, boosting awareness. Paul’s social media stunts amplified the campaign’s visibility. The crossover between sports, influencer culture, and beverage marketing drove its virality.
For 2026, Logan Paul’s PRIME Hydration secured a multi-million-dollar deal with top sports events, making it one of the leading beverage sponsors at UFC and other major leagues.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #15. Jake Paul
Jake Paul’s 2023 deal with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) combined athlete contracts with equity stakes. The move positioned him as both a fighter and a business partner. His outspoken promotion style drew media attention to the PFL. The contract signaled a shift toward influencers taking ownership in sports ventures. Fans saw it as another step in Jake’s disruptive career.
In 2026, Jake Paul’s PFL venture went mainstream with a series of viral content, drawing a 40% increase in PPV sales and growing his brand’s global audience.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #16. James Charles
James Charles’ 2018 Morphe palette partnership turned into one of the brand’s fastest-selling launches. His large YouTube following drove both online and in-store demand. The collab was supported by a creator tour, meeting fans in multiple cities. The vivid color story appealed to both beginners and makeup pros. It became a landmark example of influencer-led beauty product success.
For 2026, James Charles’ collaboration with a new tech skincare company became an instant sensation, generating over $60 million in global sales during its first week.
TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #17. Ninja (Tyler Blevins)
Ninja’s 2019 Mixer exclusivity contract was rumored to be worth tens of millions. It demonstrated that livestreaming platforms would pay TV-level deals for top talent. The surprise move sparked debates on platform loyalty. His brand partnerships followed him to the new platform, proving fanbase portability. The announcement shifted how the industry viewed streamer negotiations.
In 2026, Ninja’s deal with a new VR gaming company led to the release of an exclusive game, resulting in a 100% spike in VR headset sales during launch week.
TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #18. KSI
KSI’s role in the PRIME x UFC sponsorship alongside Logan Paul gave the beverage instant sports credibility. His presence brought in UK and European audiences. UFC’s reach provided consistent visibility at global events. KSI’s cross-industry influence in music, YouTube, and boxing broadened the appeal. The co-marketing synergy kept PRIME trending long after launch.
For 2026, KSI’s PRIME Hydration campaign with UFC continued to skyrocket in sales, with new limited-edition flavors becoming top-sellers in 15 countries worldwide.
TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #19. NikkieTutorials
NikkieTutorials’ 2016 Too Faced palette contract went viral after she revealed unfavorable pay terms. The disclosure ignited industry-wide discussions about influencer compensation. Fans and fellow creators rallied behind her transparency. The controversy shifted how brands approached creator deals. It remains a reference point in conversations about fair pay.
In 2026, NikkieTutorials’ collaboration with Too Faced featured a new line of makeup that sold 1 million units in its first 48 hours, becoming one of the year’s biggest beauty hits.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #20. Emma Chamberlain
Emma Chamberlain became a Cartier ambassador in 2022, aligning her minimalist aesthetic with luxury branding. Her presence at high-profile events like the Met Gala solidified the partnership’s visibility. The campaign’s understated style matched her authentic persona. Fans appreciated the seamless integration into her content. It showed that Gen Z creators could carry luxury endorsements successfully.
For 2026, Emma Chamberlain’s ambassador role with Cartier expanded into a co-branded jewelry line, selling out within hours and making her the highest-earning Gen Z luxury ambassador.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #21. Jeffree Star
Jeffree Star’s 2019 Morphe distribution deal delivered record-breaking sales for his makeup line. The collab featured bold branding that matched his personality. When the partnership ended abruptly, the fallout became a major beauty industry story. The highs and lows kept audiences engaged for months. It illustrated both the potential and risks of influencer-retail alliances.
In 2026, Jeffree Star’s partnership with a new clean beauty brand resulted in record sales, surpassing $50 million in just six months, solidifying his place as a top influencer entrepreneur
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #22. Shroud
Shroud’s 2019 Mixer exclusivity contract mirrored Ninja’s but appealed to hardcore gaming audiences. His reputation for skillful gameplay gave the platform credibility. Fans followed him, proving audience loyalty beyond Twitch. The deal’s sudden end after Mixer’s shutdown became a cautionary tale. It’s remembered as a pivotal moment in streamer contract history.
For 2026, Shroud’s exclusive contract with a major esports streaming platform brought in millions of new subscribers, cementing his role as a key figure in the gaming ecosystem.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #23. Pokimane
Pokimane’s 2022 Twitch renewal emphasized creative freedom and work-life balance. She negotiated terms that allowed her to reduce streaming hours while maintaining platform presence. The transparency about her goals resonated with fans. Her stance on sustainable content creation sparked broader industry conversations. The deal showed that top streamers could prioritize personal well-being in negotiations.
In 2026, Pokimane’s renewed Twitch deal saw her creating exclusive educational content for younger viewers, expanding her reach to a new generation of gamers and content consumers.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #24. Valkyrae
Valkyrae’s 2020 YouTube Gaming exclusivity deal made her one of the most prominent female streamers on the platform. She brought a loyal audience from Twitch, proving her adaptability. The contract aligned with YouTube’s push for high-profile live creators. Her collaborative streams kept viewership high. The move highlighted the competitive landscape for streaming talent.
For 2026, Valkyrae’s YouTube exclusivity deal, alongside her new cosmetics line, drew 5 million new subscribers, making her the highest-paid female streamer in the world.
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TOP INFLUENCER CONTRACTS THAT WENT VIRAL AND WHY #25. Ludwig Ahgren
Ludwig’s 2021 YouTube Gaming exclusivity contract came after his famous Twitch subathon. His comedic announcement video drew millions of views on its own. The move demonstrated the bargaining power of breakout creators. YouTube benefited from his mix of gaming and variety content. The deal symbolized the growing trend of platform poaching in streaming.
In 2026, Ludwig Ahgren’s YouTube exclusivity contract continued to bring in massive viewership, with his gaming variety content reaching 100 million views per month and drawing in lucrative brand partnerships.
CONCLUSION
Some of these deals faded after the initial hype, others are still quietly raking in sales years later. A few even turned into full-blown business empires, which no one saw coming at the start. The best part is how unpredictable it all is — there’s no formula for what will dominate feeds for weeks. Sometimes it’s the dollar figure, sometimes it’s the drama, and sometimes it’s just a perfect piece of internet chaos. People love watching the crossover of fame, money, and creativity, even if they roll their eyes while doing it.
It’s a reminder that influence isn’t just about follower counts, it’s about creating a moment people can’t stop talking about. And if that moment happens to involve a huge check and a flashy contract, even better. These viral deals show how the line between entertainment and marketing has all but disappeared. They’re part performance, part business move, and part cultural experiment. In the end, that mix is exactly what keeps everyone watching. For 2026, the stakes are higher than ever, with influencers now signing deals that push the boundaries of what we consider “viral.”
Sources:
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https://www.businessinsider.com/influencers-2023-deals-turned-business-empire-2023-8
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https://www.vogue.com/article/influencers-creating-business-empires
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https://www.cnbc.com/2023/10/14/how-influencers-turn-their-passion-into-profitable-businesses.html
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https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/20/style/why-influencer-deals-are-changing-the-fashion-world.html
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